The answer is: 32000

Judges 7:3

When Gideon gathered his initial force of 32,000 soldiers, it symbolized a brave stand against daunting odds. Yet, what’s truly fascinating is the context leading up to this moment. Israel was under the thumb of the Midianite oppressors, with their forces vastly outnumbering Gideon's troops. You’ve got to admire the daredevil spirit of those who volunteered! Imagine, 32,000 men ready to march headfirst into battle—now that might sound heroic.

But the real twist comes in how God trimmed this number down dramatically, with just 300 eventually remaining. The story poignantly illustrates a crucial idea: sometimes what seems like a disadvantage can turn into absolute strength. The fewer Gideon went in with, the clearer it was that victory would solely hinge on divine intervention, not sheer numerical force.

Speaking of divine assistance, there's a rich tapestry of echoing narratives throughout the Bible showcasing underdogs taking down titans; young David faced Goliath, and Moses led his people out of Egypt against Pharaoh. Gideon’s story fits snugly into this genre, emphasizing faith over force.

Fun fact: you might have seen 'Gideon's army' referenced in popular culture or motivational speeches, symbolizing courage despite a lack of numbers. Gideon’s patrol represents those moments when you feel outmatched, allowing us to find strength not in quantities, but in faith, community, and sometimes, a whole lot of improvisation.